They do, but. Always a but isn't there. Anything hard like a pair of pliers, or a plastic box, or a water bottle that leans against the side of the large bucket very quickly makes a crack in the side. These buckets are soft and while not fragile, they are not sturdy. In 10 years time I've had 4 or 5 and the one I have now is duct taped and awaiting replacement. I wish Hobie would make one from the same material as the rectangular hatch bucket.

You would be best to either try and find a pair of pliers that will fit flat in the bucket or another way to store your pliers. The side net, if you have one, is a perfect place to store them. My pliers usually end up in the floor after the first fish anyway. Use your cord to keep them from sliding under the seat.

Here is another idea.....Since I always wear my PFD, I carry my 6 3/4" long pliers on the front of my NRS PFD as shown. The Shimano pliers pocket will handle longer pliers.The retractable SS leash works great and I never need to go looking for the pliers.

I also carry the smaller split ring + cutter pliers for spectra type line, in the RH vest pocket (left side of the photo). It's leashed too.